For the urban driver, scooters and mopeds have long been a popular and extremely efficient option. Particularly popular in Europe, where high fuel costs and ancient, narrow roads make the use of regular passenger vehicles unrealistic, the use of these smaller, two-wheeled options are becoming increasingly popular is the U.S. as gas prices continue to climb. With the gas mileage of nearly 100 miles per gallon (scroll down), and an average price of around $3,000, scooters are by far the most cost-efficient option. The use of scooters for urban travel can significantly reduce emissions and traffic congestion; best of all, unlike driving a motorcycle, driving a scooter or moped requires no special license, including a driver's license! Visit the Virginia DMV for the complete law regarding the use of scooters and mopeds.

An important note when considering scooters as a transportation alternative is to choose newer, four-stroke engines over the older two-stroke models. Two-stroke engines can, in one hour, put out as much pollution as ten cars running for 250 miles each according to the California Air Resources Board. Always choose a scooter with a four-stroke engine, as they are much less polluting.

When driving a scooter, safety is of the utmost concern. Remember that you will be moving slower than the average vehicle on the road and, being smaller, are more likely to be overlooked. Many of the same safety rules regarding motorcycle safety apply to scooters and mopeds. This brochure from George Mason University (1,050k PDF file, opens in new window) covers scooter safety. You may also check with your local DMV office or community college to see if scooter or motorcycle safety classes or offered before hitting the road.